husqvarna mowers owners manual yth21k46

The Husqvarna YTH21K46 is a 46-inch riding lawn mower featuring a 21 HP Kohler 7000 Series V-twin engine, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO engagement, and a durable fabricated steel cutting deck. Designed for residential use, it offers comfort with a high-back seat, cruise control, and easy maneuverability. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Deck Operation 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty & Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: 21 HP Kohler V-twin engine, 46-inch fabricated steel deck, Hydrostatic transmission, Electric PTO (Power Take-Off), Cruise control, High-back seat, Headlights, Hour meter, and 2.5-gallon fuel tank.

FeatureDescription
Engine21 HP Kohler 7000 Series V-twin, OHV
Cutting Width46 inches
TransmissionHydrostatic, infinite forward/reverse speeds
Deck MaterialFabricated steel, 10-gauge
PTO EngagementElectric switch
Cutting HeightAdjustable 1.5 to 4 inches
SeatHigh-back, adjustable
Fuel Capacity2.5 gallons
Turning Radius18 inches
Standard EquipmentHeadlights, hour meter, cup holder

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

  1. Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles.
  2. Never allow children or pets near the mower during operation.
  3. Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow up and down slopes, not across.
  4. Always engage parking brake before dismounting.
  5. Disengage PTO and set throttle to slow before starting engine.

WARNING! Risk of blade contact and thrown objects. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. Never operate without discharge chute or grass catcher properly installed.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Install steering wheel: Align and tighten bolt.
  2. Attach seat: Mount using provided bolts and washers.
  3. Connect battery: Attach red (+) then black (-) cables.
  4. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 14 PSI (front) and 10 PSI (rear).
  5. Add engine oil: Use SAE 10W-30, fill to dipstick "Full" mark.
  6. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Check for loose parts before first use.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Dashboard: Ignition key, PTO switch, throttle/choke, hour meter, headlight switch.

Pedals: Forward/reverse speed pedal (hydrostatic), brake pedal, parking brake lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Sit on seat. 2. Engage parking brake. 3. Set throttle to choke (cold) or fast (warm). 4. Turn key to START. 5. Release key to ON position once engine starts.

Stopping: 1. Disengage PTO. 2. Set throttle to slow. 3. Turn key to OFF. 4. Engage parking brake.

Cutting Deck Operation

For optimal cutting performance and deck longevity.

  1. Engage PTO only at full throttle.
  2. Adjust cutting height using deck lift lever (left side of seat).
  3. Overlap cutting passes by 2-3 inches for even results.
  4. Clean deck after each use to prevent grass buildup.
  5. Sharpen blades every 25 hours of operation or when grass tips appear torn.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best discharge and bagging performance.

Maintenance Schedule

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck tire pressure, engine oil level, fuel level, and for loose parts.
First 5 hoursChange engine oil (break-in period).
Every 8 hoursCheck blade condition and tightness.
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil, clean/replace air filter, sharpen blades, check battery.
Every 50 hoursReplace spark plug, check tire pressure, lubricate pivot points.
Every 100 hoursChange transmission fluid, replace fuel filter.
SeasonallyClean underside of deck, check belts for wear.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues and corrosion.

  1. Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
  2. Change engine oil and filter.
  3. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, and pull starter cord slowly to coat.
  4. Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
  5. Store in a cool, dry place, preferably on a level surface.
  6. Disconnect battery negative cable if storing longer than 30 days.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in carburetor without stabilizer. Gasoline can degrade and clog fuel system.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startParking brake not engaged, PTO engaged, dead battery, empty fuel tank, old fuelEnsure parking brake is on & PTO is off. Check battery charge. Add fresh fuel.
Engine runs rough or stallsDirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filter, fouled spark plugReplace air/fuel filters and spark plug. Use fresh gasoline.
Poor cutting performanceDull blades, low engine speed, clogged deck, incorrect cutting heightSharpen blades. Clean deck. Operate at full throttle. Adjust cutting height.
Mower won't moveParking brake engaged, drive belt loose or broken, low transmission fluidDisengage parking brake. Inspect drive belt. Check transmission fluid level.
Excessive vibrationLoose or damaged blade, unbalanced blade, debris in blade spindleStop engine immediately. Inspect and tighten or replace blade. Remove debris.

Reset: For electrical issues, disconnect battery for 5 minutes to reset controller.

Warranty & Support

Husqvarna YTH21K46 is covered by a 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Proof of purchase is required. Warranty does not cover normal wear items (belts, blades, tires), damage from misuse, neglect, or improper maintenance.

For technical support, parts diagrams, or to locate a dealer:

Husqvarna YTH21K46 Owner's Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025